Celoron Cleanup Continues

Officials Hope To Have Site Of Christmas Day Fire Clear By Weekend

May 31, 2011

CELORON - The debris that has remained from the Christmas Day fire in Celoron is nearly gone.

On Tuesday, Kingsview Paving & Excavating crews were in the process of clearing the sight of debris at 25 Boulevard Ave., Celoron. On Christmas Day, firefighters from four departments battled the blaze. All occupants of the building were removed safely during the fire. The building was completely destroyed.

Because of state regulations, paperwork and rainy weather, crews were delayed from being able to remove the debris. John Rauh, Kingsview Paving & Excavating owner, said they were able to remove materials containing asbestos Friday, with more cleaning of rubble Tuesday. Rauh said if air monitoring goes well on Thursday and the weather cooperates, the final stages of the cleanup could be done by this Friday.

Article Video

''It is supposed to be a good weather week, We are counting our blessings,'' he said

Rauh said there are still outside areas on the site where there is still too much moisture to remove some debris. He said once his crews can hand rake the final refuse, the site will be cleared.

''After the air monitoring, if they give us their blessing we will be allowed to take down the fence,'' he said. ''Weather permitting it may be completed, depending on the air monitoring, by Friday night.''

Article Photos

Kingsview Paving & Excavating is removing debris from the site of the Christmas Day fire that took place at 25 Boulevard Ave., Celoron. P-J photo by Dennis Phillips

P-J photo by Dennis Phillips

John Keeney, Celoron mayor, said he is glad the cleanup process is near completion.

''We are very happy that it is done or nearly done,'' he said.

Keeney said he is disappointed the mess was not cleaned by the time Memorial Day ceremonies were held Monday. However, at least the debris seems likely to be removed before the Celoron Rib-Fest June 8-11 in Lucille Ball Memorial Park.

''I'm not any more joyful that it will be done before rib fest. I would have been happier if it would had been done when promised,'' Keeney said. ''I'm happy it will be done ... as soon as possible.''